Fr. Francis Patrick Lavelle

Ordained: 1970
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Two men filed suit in 7/2002 alleging abuse by Lavelle when they were teens. One said his abuse occurred in 1972 and the other said he was abused in 1980, when Lavelle was working as secretary for the Bishop. Four brothers filed suit in 12/2003 claiming abuse by Lavelle and four other priests 1967-1983. Permanently barred from ministry in 2/2004. Two plaintiffs were included in a 7/2004 settlement for $7M. Named in a 2004 civil suit. Two more claims settled in 2008. Outcome of administrative process needed Vatican approval. Assigned a life of prayer of penance in 2010. Included on the Diocese’s list of credibly accused.


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